RHODRI MORGAN : UPDATED: Former First Minister Rhodri Morgan died while cycling near his home

Former First Minister Rhodri Morgan collapsed and died while cycling in lanes near his home.

South Wales Police say officers were called to an incident involving the former First Minister on Wednesday evening.

A spokeswoman said: "South Wales Police can confirm that officers were called to an incident which happened on a lane near Cwrt Yr Ala Road, Wenvoe shortly after 5pm last night after reports that a man had been taken ill.

"Police and paramedics attended. Sadly, the man, former First Minister Rhodri Morgan, was pronounced deceased at the scene. Next of kin have and HM Coroner have been informed."

Tributes have been made to former First Minister Rhodri Morgan who has died aged 77.

Politicians from across all parties in Wales have paid their respects to “the Father of Wales” who spent more than 30 years in politics and led the country for almost a decade from 2000.

General election campaigning has been suspended today as a mark of respect.

Mayor of Cwmaman and fellow Labour councillor Kevin Madge has spoken about his meetings with Mr Morgan.

Cllr Madge said: “One of my fondest memories of Rhodri has got to be him coming to the Amman Valley to open Ysgol y Bedol in 2005.

“The school was one of the first 21st century schools and his legacy and vision for Wales will be remembered through this project.

“He will be remembered as one of the greatest.

“He has been to several meetings Ammanford, Amman Valley and Carmarthenshire and I have sat in many numerous conferences with him.

“His passing is a devastating loss for Labour and he will be sadly missed.”

In a statement issued just after the news broke First Minister Carwyn Jones said: "Wales hasn't just lost a great politician, we've lost a real father figure.

"In very many ways Rhodri wasn't like other politicians and that is why people warmed to him, trusted him, and felt like they knew him so well.

"He was funny, clever, engaging on almost any topic and absolutely passionate about all things Welsh.

"I owe him a great deal, just as we all do in Welsh Labour.

"He did so much to fight for, and then establish devolution in the hearts and minds of the public in our country.

"His bright confidence was infectious, and we can see so much of Rhodri's can-do attitude in our modern Wales. That first decade of self-governance, and making distinct choices for Wales will forever be associated with his leadership.

"He will be hugely missed, and my thoughts are with Julie and all the family at this sad time."

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn hailed him as a "giant" of the Labour movement.